The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has raised serious concern over the growing danger faced by journalists around the world, revealing that about 85 per cent of attacks against media workers go unpunished.
Guterres made this known in a message to mark World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3 to promote the importance of a free press and to highlight the challenges faced by journalists globally.
In his message, the UN chief described press freedom as a key part of any democratic society, stressing that the media plays a vital role in holding leaders accountable and informing the public.
“All freedom depends on press freedom,” he said. “Without it, there can be no human rights, no sustainable development, and no peace.”
According to him, the high level of impunity in cases involving attacks on journalists is a major threat to democracy. He noted that when crimes against journalists are not investigated or punished, it sends a dangerous message that such actions can continue without consequences.
Guterres explained that journalists often work under difficult and risky conditions, especially in conflict zones and areas where powerful individuals or groups do not want scrutiny.
“People often say that in war, truth is the first casualty,” he said. “But far too frequently, the first casualties are the journalists who risk everything to report that truth.”
He added that media workers around the world face different forms of danger, including censorship, surveillance, legal harassment, and even death.
The UN chief also pointed to a worrying increase in the number of journalists killed in recent years. Many of these deaths, he said, were not accidental but deliberate, especially in regions affected by conflict or political tension.
Beyond physical attacks, Guterres warned that press freedom is also under pressure from economic difficulties facing media organisations. Many news outlets struggle to survive due to declining revenue, making it harder for them to carry out independent reporting.
He further highlighted the role of new technologies and the spread of false information as additional challenges. According to him, misinformation and disinformation are weakening public trust in the media and distorting public debate.
“When access to reliable information erodes, mistrust takes root,” he said. “When public debate is distorted, social cohesion weakens. And when journalism is undermined, crises become far more difficult to prevent and resolve.”
Guterres recalled the Windhoek Declaration, adopted in 1991, which called for independent and diverse media across the world. The declaration later led to the global recognition of World Press Freedom Day.
He said the principles of the Windhoek Declaration remain relevant today, especially as journalists continue to face threats in many countries.
The UN has long advocated for the protection of journalists, urging governments to investigate crimes against media workers and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
In Nigeria, cases of harassment, arrest, and intimidation of journalists have been reported over the years, especially during elections and periods of political tension. Media organisations and civil society groups have repeatedly called for stronger protections for journalists and greater respect for press freedom.
Guterres stressed the need for governments, organisations, and individuals to work together to protect journalists and create a safe environment for them to do their work.
He called for stronger laws, better enforcement, and greater awareness of the importance of press freedom.
“Truth depends on people who are willing to seek it, report it, and defend it,” he said. “We must ensure that journalists can do their jobs without fear.”
The UN chief also urged the global community to support independent journalism, especially at a time when the media industry is facing major changes due to digital transformation.
As the world marked World Press Freedom Day, his message served as a reminder of the risks journalists face daily and the need to protect those who bring information to the public.
For many media professionals, the fight for press freedom is not just about their work but also about the right of citizens to access accurate and reliable information.
With 85 per cent of attacks on journalists still going unpunished, the warning from the United Nations highlights an urgent global issue that continues to demand attention and action.